Jones strikes to lift Cheltenham Civil Service Reserves off the foot of GNSL Div Two table

Cheltenham Civil Service Reserves nicked a late winner at home against Winchcombe Town First’s on Saturday afternoon, to secure a 1-0 victory in treacherous conditions and move off the bottom of the Gloucestershire Northern Senior League Division Two table, writes Alfie Richmond.

Storm Darragh did its best to hinder both sides in the run-up to kick off. Despite strong winds, the pitch was deemed playable and Mark Jones’ late effort was enough to decide the game.

Kicking into the wind in the first half made it difficult for Winchcombe to keep the ball. Though ‘Civi’ kept it well, the wind added unwanted weight to their final passes.

It wasn’t until the 20th minute a decent opportunity was presented to Civi’s Aaron Pugh, who was allowed to bypass Winchcombe’s midfield to eventually find his long-range effort wide.

Archy Greenwood’s bright combination play helped progress Civi up the field, without truly threatening Winchombe’s goal.

Winchcombe began the second half strongly, taking advantage of the wind. Long balls over Civi’s backline created problems, with Benjie Bingham’s effort narrowly missing shortly after the break.

The game opened up as Stu Midwinter missed opportunities for Civi, while Ethan Brook countered for Winchcombe and struck just wide of the post.

With minutes remaining, Sam Coats set up substitute Jay Bettell, whose tame shot found the arms of Civi’s keeper.

Shortly after, Midwinter’s persistence paid off after his deflected cross fell nicely to Mark Jones who brilliantly slotted home late on to win the game for Civi.

The result sees Civi move to 15th, three points behind Viney St Swithins, who sit just outside the relegation zone – whilst Winchcombe are a point further ahead Viney after the result.

Both sides face tough home fixtures this weekend, with Civi hosting Stonehouse Town Reserves and Winchcombe Town welcoming league leaders Barnwood United.

Cheltenham Civil Service Reserves: Pittaway; Meredith, Marlow (E), Pugh, Harker, Greenwood, Jones, Thatcher, Midwinter, Swift, Marlow (T).

Subs: Jackson; Horrill-Jenkins, Harvey, Kimberley, Robson

Winchcombe Town: Brouhgton; Staines, Comfort, Parker, Harding, Marlow, Carwardine, Staddon, Brook, Coats, Bingham

Subs: Harcombe, Long, O’Brien, Silver, Bettell

C Martin Roofing Man of the Match – Archy Greenwood (Cheltenham Civil Service Reserves)